SC dismisses plea for ban on Pakistani artistes in India, advises against 'narrow-mindedness'
New Delhi, November 28: The Supreme Court on Tuesday rejected a petition urging for a complete ban on Pakistani artists from working or performing in India, stating that the petitioner should not harbour a narrow perspective. Filed by Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who identifies as a cine worker and artist, the plea was turned down by a Bench comprising Justices Sanjiv Khanna and SVN Bhatti.
Declining to intervene in the Bombay High Court's ruling that dismissed the plea, the Supreme Court refused to remove specific remarks made by the high court against the petitioner.
_716b420fef22f463f309c87072c7c468_1280X720.webp)
The original petition sought a directive from the central government to enforce a comprehensive ban on engaging with Pakistani artists, including cine workers, singers, musicians, lyricists, and technicians.
The Bombay High Court justified its dismissal by emphasising that the relief sought by the petitioner would impede cultural harmony and global peace, lacking any substantive merit. It emphasised that being a patriot does not necessitate hostility towards individuals from neighbouring countries.
The court expressed that true patriotism entails selflessness and fostering goodwill towards all, welcoming activities that promote peace, unity, and tranquility. It underscored the role of arts, music, sports, and culture as unifying forces that transcend national boundaries and contribute to peaceful coexistence within and between nations.
The High Court also referenced India's participation in the Cricket World Cup, citing it as an example of positive strides taken by the Indian government for overall peace and harmony, aligning with Article 51 of the Constitution that advocates for international peace and security.
- With inputs from agencies
